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SEC football: Each team’s most important player in 2017

By Erich Hilkert

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) runs with the ball against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) runs with the ball against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; LSU Tigers defensive end Arden Key (49) during the Lambeau Field College Classic against the Wisconsin Badgers at Lambeau Field. Wisconsin won 16-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; LSU Tigers defensive end Arden Key (49) during the Lambeau Field College Classic against the Wisconsin Badgers at Lambeau Field. Wisconsin won 16-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Kentucky: Benny Snell

Benny Snell was just behind Chubb in the SEC in rushing yards in 2016 with 1,091 and his yards per carry was quite a bit better (5.9). His total of 13 rushing touchdowns was tied for third-best in the SEC. Kentucky returns 17 starters from last season’s squad. Snell is probably the biggest piece of the puzzle with Kentucky running the ball heavily and Stanley “Boom” Williams deciding to turn pro.

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LSU: Arden Key

Derrius Guice would be the obvious choice here, but it would be a surprise if he doesn’t have a big season. For LSU’s offense, quarterback Danny Etling is a much bigger x-factor. However, like Florida, LSU’s identity revolves around the defense. The team lost a lot of talent on that side of the ball.

However, Arden Key is one of the leaders who could return. As of now, he is away from the team for personal reasons. However, the coaching staff keeps in touch with him and expects him to return. Key finished second in the SEC in sacks in 2016 with 12 total sacks. Reports indicate he added weight this offseason and given this weight gain, his numbers might be even stronger in 2017.

Mississippi State: Nick Fitzgerald

While many of the heavyweights in the SEC revolve around a stifling defense, Dan Mullen is the model of consistency with re-tooled offenses that produce good numbers. This season, he might surprise some with Nick Fitzgerald having a full year of starting experience. Mullen said Fitzgerald is the most athletic quarterback he has ever coached.

Considering Tim Tebow held several NCAA records and Dak Prescott just turned in one of the best rookie NFL seasons ever, that is high praise. Fitzgerald finished last season as the SEC’s second-leading rusher with 1,375 rushing yards and was best in the conference with 16 rushing touchdowns, impressive stuff for a quarterback. Suffice it to say, the Bulldogs offense revolves around Fitzgerald and as an extension, the team.

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